Dynamic Covalent Polymer Networks Based on Renewable Feedstocks: A Perspective on the Role of Vitrimers in a Closed-Loop Economy

Thermosetting polymers are widely used due to their excellent thermal stability, mechanical performance and chemical resistance. A major challenge, however, is the recyclability related to their cross-linked nature. Consequently, they are often discarded by incineration or landfilling. The incorporation of dynamic linkages within thermosets offers a promising route toward the complete recycling of cross-linked polymers. Covalent adaptable networks such as vitrimers exhibit properties comparable to those of thermosets during operation but are still reprocessable at elevated temperatures. The use of renewable carbon feedstocks for their manufacturing is key for further reducing the environmental impact of this new class of materials. To explore the complete range of sustainable vitrimer materials, the discussion on renewable carbon includes both the use of biomass and end-of-life plastics as feedstock. Using the gathered knowledge, a perspective is presented on the impact of vitrimer materials from both an environmental and economic point of view.